To get us through the deadest period of the NFL offseason, I've been discussing the expectations for every player on the Bears' roster. 

We've already gone over the entire offense, so click here if you missed it. 

Next up, we move to the defense, starting with the defensive line. Let's see if this group is expected to be any better than it was a year ago.

DeMarcus Walker, DE

The expectation for Walker is to come in and immediately be a veteran leader on the edge. The young pass-rushers will benefit from learning behind the experienced Walker, who is coming off a career-best season in 2022. No team collected fewer sacks than the Bears in 2022, and Walker is now likely the best pass-rusher on the roster. Walker should arrive at camp knowing the younger guys are looking to him for guidance. 

Andrew Billings, DT

The massive Billings comes to Chicago after an impressive season with the Raiders in 2022. Billings is known as an above-average run-stuffer, and the expectation is that he lives up to his reputation. While Billings likely won’t help much in the sack department, he will assuredly help the Bears’ 31st-ranked run defense. Billings will be on the field for 1st and 2nd downs and will be a key presence for the young defensive tackles. 

Justin Jones, DT

Jones got after the quarterback more in 2022 than in previous years, but it came at the cost of his run-defense ratings. The expectation for 2023 is that Jones has some pressure taken off of him and reverts back to his solid run-defending style. The additions of Walker, Billings, and the two rookie tackles will take much stress off of Jones. The veteran will likely take on a supporting role as the season progresses. 

Trevis Gipson, DE

Gipson is the biggest wildcard on the Bears’ defense. Will the team get the 2021 Gipson or the 2022 Gipson? In 2021, Gipson had 39 tackles and seven sacks. In 2022, the edge rusher regressed and ended with just three sacks. The expectation for Gipson is to come into camp knowing he needs a breakout season. The Bears did not add much competition for Gipson, so he needs to prove that he deserves the starting spot. 

Dominique Robinson, DE

Robinson will be battling Gipson for one starting edge position. The expectation is that Robinson comes into camp thinking he can win the starting gig. Gipson disappointed in 2022, seemingly leaving the door open for Robinson to supplant him. Worst-case scenario, Robinson starts the season off as a depth pass-rusher. Best-case scenario? Robinson is a starter by the time Week 1 rolls around. 

Zacch Pickens, DT

Pickens keeps with the theme of the Bears bringing in big, run-stopping linemen this offseason. Jones and Billings are two of the best teammates Pickens could have. Expect the rookie to start the season in a reserve role before forcing his way into the gameplan as the year progresses. 

Gervon Dexter Sr., DT

Another run-stuffing defensive tackle, Dexter likely has the most promise of any of the linemen. The expectation for Dexter is that he impresses in camp and gets some first-team reps. Dexter’s teammate Justin Jones is an apt comparison for the rookie. Similarly to Jones, Dexter has no trouble getting into the backfield and has been known to swat a pass or two. Dexter finished his college career with two interceptions, five sacks, and 10.5 tackles for loss in three seasons while receiving high grades for his run defense. Dexter could be a force sooner than later. 

The rest

This Bears’ defensive line is still not as deep as the team would like it to be. Of the rest, free agent addition Rasheem Green likely figures to play the biggest role. The expectation is for Green to come into camp and secure a depth spot early by separating from the pack. Jalen Harris is a rookie UDFA who landed in the best possible spot for an edge-rusher. Travis Bell is a seventh-round rookie who will have a tough task to crack this roster in 2023. 

Featured image via © Daniel Bartel | 2023 Jan 8